Ilja Dorsch

What's your work professional background?

I worked in operations for a global player in the rail industry from 2006 until recently. During that time, I got the opportunity to work in Japan from 2006 to 2009;  in Australia for another 2.5 years; and then for APAC in Hong Kong for another 5 years. In the last role, I was responsible for Aftermarket Operations in 5 countries and driving development in China, before changing my role to General Manager of Operation in Japan in 2016. I just changed last summer to another family-owned company in the automation sector, which is a completely new challenge and learning curve.

What do you like best about studying at GLOBIS?

The energy of the faculty and of my classmates. It is a very diverse community and, though everyone is busy, we share the workload and a lot of laughs. The on-campus classes are filled with a lot of very good discussions. On a daily basis I have learned a lot not only through the program, but also from my fellow students.

Since starting your MBA program, have you had an opportunity to apply what you learned at work?

On various occasions, yes. Leadership courses, especially, have helped me a lot, not only at work but also in private life. I have a holistic view of business now and can understand how and why decisions are made. Furthermore, it makes my work focused on what is actually generating value to the company and what can support the growth of the company in the future.

What can you tell me about the other students in the program?

Diverse, fun, and up for a challenge. Very open-minded. I was looking for a community like this for a long time, one with like-minded and very intelligent people.

What advice would you give to potential prospects who are interested in taking the GLOBIS MBA/Pre-MBA?

An MBA is an eye- and mind-opening experience. It has changed me in many positive ways. Start with a Pre-MBA and the courses you are initially interested in. Applying what you have learned will motivate you to take more courses and expand your curiosity in other business segments. GLOBIS also has Technovate courses, which are preparing us for the changes to come and are very exciting.